Reuben sparks rebellion in Fallujah

(AP) Latest reports out of Iraq are that the 20,000 plus private security forces in that country are being paid overtime by McDonalds corporation to enforce the company's multi national patent on the Reuben sandwich (see RSR reports starting in early April). Apparently the private guns hired by CA contractors to guard critical infrastructure and government offices are now spending their evenings and weekends raiding Iraqi businesses accused of selling Reuben sandwiches without paying McDonalds royalties. There are reports that US Marines who have sealed off the city of Fallujah are not allowing any materials into the city which could be used in the production of Reuben sandwiches. Insiders say McDonalds hopes to establish a precedent in Iraq that can be used to strengthen its patent in other jurisdictions. The company already faces court challenges to its patent including a possible review by the US 9th circuit. Allegations are being made by European based consumer advocates that US multinationals are involved in a conspiracy to corner the market on the Reuben sandwich. The CA, the US military and officials at the White House are refusing to comment pending the outcome of an investigation of what some unnamed sources are already calling "Reuben Gate".

RSR first reported this story in early April 2004.